Kate to be played by actress Charlotte Riley in upcoming BBC drama

By Gemma Strong

November 09, 2016

British actress Charlotte Riley has landed the role of the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, in an upcoming BBC2 drama titled King Charles III. The "future-history" saga imagines Prince Charles' ascension to the throne following the Queen's death, and is based on Mike Bartlett's Olivier Award-winning play of the same name.

TAP FOR GALLERY Charlotte Riley has been cast as Duchess Kate in the upcoming royal drama.

Tim Pigott-Smith, who starred in the stage production of the play, will reprise the role of King Charles, with Margot Leicester appearing as his wife, the Duchess of Cornwall.

Written in blank verse, the play is focused on the new monarch's refusal to sign a controversial bill into law, sparking political chaos, a constitutional crisis and riots of the streets. As Charles wrestles with his own identity, the drama explores the implications his actions have for him, his family and his subjects.

Peaky Binders actress Charlotte has shared her excitement at joining the cast. "It's such a unique project, to be both modern and rich in verse and to play someone who is real but yet totally re-imagined for this story, is an exciting prospect for an actor," said the 34-year-old, wife of The Revenant star Tom Hardy.

"Kate is a really interesting woman, particularly within the context of this play, and it is a challenge I'm really looking forward to."

Tim Pigott-Smith will play King Charles in the BBC 2 production.

Lead actor Tim added: "Performing King Charles in Mike Bartlett's astonishing play in London and New York has been one of the high points of my career. I am thrilled that we are able to film it – it is a drama about us, now, who we are, and the relevance of our monarchy. Television gives it an important democratic voice."

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